The Whole Secret Laid Open, Or the Complete Art of Making the Chemical Fulminating Objects, Such as the Lace, or Girt of Security, Fulminating Letters, Balls, Bombs, Garters, Cards, Spiders, Segars, Chairs, Drawers, Boots, Shoes, &c. &c.

"The Whole Secret Laid Open, Or the Complete Art of Making the Chemical Fulminating Objects, &c." by Anonymous, is a manual from a time when science and spectacle mixed freely, revealing how to craft explosive novelties with chemistry. It presents detailed instructions for turning everyday objects like letters, balls, and furniture into surprising sources of loud bangs, via sensitive compounds such as fulminating silver. The book highlights the era's interest in the power of chemistry while stressing awareness for the need for careful handling, creating a blend of exciting possibilities and necessary precautions.